Car Key Cutting - Security, Convenience, and Peace of Mind
The art of car key cutting involves more than simply cutting a piece of metal. It's an art form that guarantees security, convenience, and peace of mind for car owners.
Bring your current key to an AutoZone location and an associate will duplicate it using the correct key cutting method for your particular model and make. The process of cutting keys takes a matter of minutes and is less expensive than purchasing a new car key purchased from the dealership.
Mechanical Keys
Mechanical keys are the most basic form of car key and date back to the early days of automotive locks. They are made with patterns that match the pin settings of a lock to unlock it. Mechanical keys can be copied at many hardware stores, however a professional locksmith with the right tools will typically be more successful in making copies that are more durable and work inside your vehicle.
A professional locksmith is also able to create laser cut keys. These keys are more secure than mechanical keys as they have grooves on both sides. This makes it more difficult to duplicate the key and if someone uses grinders to try to copy it, they'll likely leave behind metal scraps which won't fit in the lock.
Transponder keys were introduced in the 1990s to provide an extra layer of security. These keys have an embedded chip in the head of the key that communicates with your car to confirm that it is genuine. If the chip in the car's key isn't matched, your car will not start. Keys that are programmed to be more expensive than mechanical keys and require expert programming.
Smart keys are the latest advancement in car keys. They are a combination of the traditional mechanical key and remote control. It allows you to unlock and start your vehicle with the key, and allows you to do so from an extended distance. A professional auto locksmith on the move can create replacement smart keys for your vehicle in just a few minutes, using the most advanced technology.
Many people may think that they can get a replacement for their damaged or lost mechanical key at the hardware store, but this is not a good idea. Most chains do not have the right equipment or highly skilled experts to be able to create an authentic key that works in your vehicle. It is safer to hand over the making of your key to a professional and you'll save money in the end by opting for this method.
Laser Keys
Laser cut keys cost more to make than standard key blanks but provide an additional layer of security for your car. Lasers are used to cut them from the middle, which allows them to be inserted into the lock on either end and still work. They also have a distinct pattern that is difficult to duplicate.
The longer shank that is thicker and has less grooves will allow you to identify a laser-cut key from a traditional bladed key. This makes it difficult for thieves to steal your car because the key is harder to turn. Keys with this design are less likely to get trapped in locks, as they have a more precise cutting.
When you insert the laser-cut key into your lock, a distinct signal is sent to the car's receiver. This lets the car know it's the correct key and it can be used to start. If a thief does manage to obtain an unauthorized copy of your key, the car's transmitter will not register it and refuse to start.
Laser-cut keys were first introduced in the 1990s, and are currently used in a variety of luxury vehicles. They are more expensive and require special equipment to make, but they provide an extra layer security for your vehicle. A professional locksmith can replace your key quickly and efficiently at a reasonable cost should you lose it.
It is possible that you will need the transponder chip programmed in your key based on the vehicle you drive. This isn't something you can do on your own, and most car dealerships will charge you an arm and a leg to do it for you. A reliable locksmith will be able to program your transponder on your behalf however they might not have the same level of expertise as the dealer you are dealing with.
The majority of newer vehicles come with keys laser-cut that have transponder chips that provide an additional layer of security. These chips are registered to your car's specific ignition system and permit it to verify that the key is legitimate before you start the engine. Even if someone manages to steal the key and duplicate it however, they will not be in a position to start your car since the engine won't start in the event that it doesn't have a proper code.
Transponder Keys
Almost any car built in the past 20 years or therefore will have a transponder chip in it. These are radio transmitters which stop your car from being started without the correct keys. This was a significant breakthrough in the fight against car theft, as thieves had developed many ways to start cars using brute force. (Pushing the ignition switch using flat screwdrivers) and hot-wiring. (Bypassing the ignition system completely). The transponder chip solved all of that as it would only allow the car to be turned on for a short period of time, while also registering that there was a valid key in the ignition.
A standard transponder keys will look like a standard metal key, but with a plastic top. This plastic top contains the actual transponder that will transmit a signal to your car whenever the key is close to. getting a key cut near me is comprised of a digital serial number that is identical to the original transponder in your car. If the signals match your car's system, it will allow you to operate it. This is the best security system a car manufacturer can implement because it makes car theft impossible for anyone who does not have a valid key.
Depending on the model, there are different kinds of transponder keys that are available. Some are equipped with an old-fashioned transponder chip that is located inside the head of the key. Some have a remote key fob that has the key transponder. Key fobs usually come with buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your car and set an alarm and perform other functions.
A locksmith can assist you obtain an additional transponder key for your vehicle and even program it for you, if necessary. The process is typically simple and involves only a few simple steps. The new key needs to be cut using a key cutter. This can be done at any auto shop. The transponder keys blanks will then need to be programmed by an experienced locksmith for your vehicle. The procedure of programming usually takes only 10 minutes.
Key Fobs
Many modern cars use the remote keyless entry system that requires fob. The fob transmits the vehicle a signal to unlock the doors or start the motor. It can also open the trunk, provided it's equipped.
It's important to remember that the car key fob isn't like the typical metal key you've got on your keychain. It's a complex piece of electronic equipment which must be programmed correctly to work with your vehicle. That's why you should never attempt to cut your fob yourself. It's best to leave cutting and programming of your key fobs to experts.
Fobs are typically small and rectangular. Some feature a key that folds inside it, much like the switchblade. This lets the fob become smaller and compact when not being used. There are also fobs that appear more like the regular key, but without the foldable key.
If you lose your key fob it could be a major hassle to find a replacement. It may require special tools or a visit to the dealer. Dealers usually only offer an item that is compatible with your car. This is because the dealer has the technological know-how to ensure that a replacement fob matches up with the security system of your vehicle.
The process of obtaining the replacement key fob you need can be quite simple if have the correct details. You will need to know your car's year, make and model. Bring along a spare key that works.
Gather the Necessary Equipment Before you attempt to program your keyfob, check the instructions provided by the manufacturer to ensure you have the correct tools and equipment. You'll have to enter a specific mode that may require switching the ignition off and on at a specific number of times, pressing certain buttons or a combination of both. Some manufacturers may even use an illuminated light or sound to signal the switch to programming mode.
Once you've gathered the required materials, you'll be able to bring your key fob to the nearest Mister Minit store to have it cut and programmed. We can save you time and money because we cut your key fobs at less than the dealership. We are open later than the dealership, so you won't need to rush to work to get your keyfob programed and cut.